1. My Trip
2. About Lake Moraine
3. Best Time to Visit
4. How to Get There
5. How Long to Visit

My Trip

Lake Moraine is probably one of the most beautiful lake I’ve seen in my life. I said one because I was thinking if this was better than Lake Louise or maybe not? Both lakes are beautiful beyond words but both also have their own charm.

Lake Moraine doesn’t look as grand as Lake Louise but there a feeling of more closeness to this lake. I don’t know how to explain it.

I think this was my second time visiting this place. The first time was a very quick stopover on our way back to Vancouver. This time, we spend whole day exploring the place. We hiked the Rock Pile which is in my opinion a MUST thing to do when you are in Lake Mariane. The viewpoint on the top of the Rock Pile is the best place to admire the beauty of Lake Moriane. It was stunning as it is but even more when you see it from the top, it was even more breathtaking.

We also hiked the Consolation Lakes which is a lot longer than Rock Pile. It took us about 3 hrs return while the Rock Pile is only 15 – 20 minute. What takes time is staying at the top to take photos and videos. Since the Consolation Lake hike was long, we did this first.

You must be thinking how about food? This is the sad part. They one have 1 small take out place which was almost sold out when we got there. There’s also nothing much in the menu even if you make it early. I highly recommend that you bring your own snacks and drinks if you can.

After our snack, that’s when we did the Rock Pile hike. The hike and staying at the top took about an hour.

While waiting for the shuttle to go back, I went on my own to do a short Lake side hike. That was a nice relax own, I wouldn’t even call it a hike. It was more a walk but they had a dedicated trail for that.

The view from the top of Rock Pile was stunning but it was also nice to be up close and personal walking by the lake side. It was a peaceful walk but I wasn’t able to complete the trail because I had to be back in time for the shuttle. Don’t miss your shuttle or you will be in a big trouble. There is no public transportation that goes here except for the shuttle buses that you can book ahead. Even private cars are not allowed there. They used to allow private cars but they closed it now to limit the entry and control the traffic. It also boost the revenue of the shuttle buses as you are forced to pay for it even if you have your own car with you.

It was overall a really nice trip, except for one thing, the washroom. They do have washroom on site but it was the most horrible, unclean washroom I had used in my entire life travelling. Maybe it was a busy day, but nonetheless it was not a nice experience. It was horrible beyond words. Aside from that, it was a nice trip with friends 🙂

About Lake Moraine

Moraine Lake, nestled in Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada, is a glacially fed gem that captivates all who behold it. 

1. Location and Setting:
   • Geographic Position: Moraine Lake lies 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) outside the hamlet of Lake Louise.
   • Valley of the Ten Peaks: It is situated in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, surrounded by a majestic amphitheater of rugged mountain peaks.
   • Elevation: The lake rests at an elevation of approximately 1,884 meters (6,181 feet) above sea level .
2. Breathtaking Beauty:
   • Turquoise-Blue Waters: Moraine Lake is renowned for its breathtaking turquoise-blue waters. The color is so vivid that it seems almost otherworldly.
   • Iconic Views: It’s no wonder that Moraine Lake is one of the most photographed lakes in the world. The brilliant hues need to be seen to be believed.
3. Historical Tidbit:
   • The $20 View: Moraine Lake earned the nickname “The lake with the 20-dollar view” because it graced the back of the Canadian 20-dollar note in both 1969 and 1979. Its stunning vista is truly priceless

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Moraine Lake in Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada depends on the experience you seek:

Summer (June to September):

• Peak Season: This is when Moraine Lake is most accessible and vibrant. The snow has melted, revealing the stunning turquoise waters. July and August are particularly busy, so arrive early to secure parking.
• Activities: Enjoy hiking, canoeing, and photography. The Rockpile Trail offers breathtaking views.
• Weather: Expect pleasant daytime temperatures, but it can get chilly at night.

Fall (Late September to October):

• Fall Foliage: The larch trees around Moraine Lake turn golden, creating a magical landscape.
• Quieter: Fewer crowds compared to summer.
• Weather: Cooler temperatures, especially in October

Winter (November to May):

• Snowy Wonderland: Moraine Lake is covered in snow, offering a serene and peaceful atmosphere.
• Limited Access: The road to Moraine Lake is closed during winter, so you’ll need to take a shuttle from Lake Louise.
• Activities: Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Spring (Late May to Early June):

• Snowmelt: As the snow melts, Moraine Lake begins to emerge from its winter slumber.
• Wildflowers: Spring brings colorful wildflowers.
• Weather: Still cool, but less crowded than summer.

In summary, summer provides the most vibrant experience, while fall and spring offer unique beauty. Winter is ideal for a tranquil escape. Choose the time that aligns with your preferences and enjoy the awe-inspiring Moraine Lake! 

How to Get There

Moraine Lake Road is closed to personal vehicles year-round, so using the shuttle services is the best way to ensure you see this iconic lake. Here are transportation options to choose from. Make sure to double check the schedule and website of the operators as schedules and availability can change anytime.

1. Parks Canada Shuttles:
   • These shuttles are recommended for visitors driving to Lake Louise or staying in the community of Lake Louise.
   • When: Available from May to October.
   • How It Works:
     • Reserve your shuttle ticket online and park your vehicle at the Park and Ride, located at the Lake Louise Ski Resort.
     • Additional seats are released in a rolling window at 8 a.m. two days prior to departure day.
     • One ticket includes access to both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake (via the Lake Connector shuttle).
     • Your shuttle ticket does not include a National Park entry fee, so make sure to pay that separately.
     • Reservations are required, and tickets are valid for a one-hour window.
     • Once at the lakes, you can stay as long as you choose and connect between Lake Louise and Moraine Lake via the Lake Connector shuttle (available to Parks Canada Shuttle reservation holders only).
     • Your ticket includes return shuttle service from either lake back to the Park and Ride when you’re ready.
   • Roam Public Transit:
     • Recommended for visitors staying in the town of Banff.
     • When: Available year-round.
     • How It Works:
       • Leave your vehicle in Banff and take Roam Public Transit to Lake Louise.
       • Riders who upgrade to the Roam Super Pass can access the Parks Canada Lake Connector shuttle to Moraine Lake (operates daily from June 1 to October 9, 2023, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.).
   • Moraine Lake Sunrise Shuttle:
     • Offers round-trip access to Moraine Lake for sunrise with daily pick-ups from Canmore, Banff, and Lake Louise.
   • Commercial Transportation Operators:
     • You can also explore other options through commercial tour providers. Visit Banff Lake Louise Tourism for a full list of tour operators

How Long to Visit

The amount of time you’ll want to spend at Moraine Lake depends on your interests and activities. Here are some recommendations depending on the activities that you want to do:

• Gazing and Photography: If you’re simply there to take in the mesmerizing views and capture the beauty of the lake, a couple of hours should suffice. The brilliant blue hues of the glacial-fed waters need to be seen to be believed
• Hiking: If you’re an avid hiker, consider exploring the Rockpile Trail. It’s a short but rewarding hike that offers spectacular vistas of Moraine Lake and the surrounding peaks. The trail takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace.
• Canoeing: Rent a canoe and paddle across the serene waters of Moraine Lake. The experience is magical, especially during the early morning or late afternoon when the reflections on the water are at their best. Allow 1 to 2 hours for canoeing.
• Picnicking: Pack a picnic and enjoy it by the lakeshore. The tranquility and natural beauty make it an ideal spot for a leisurely meal. Allocate an hour or more for this relaxing activity.

• [VIDEO] Lake Louis
• [VIDEO] Lake Moraine
• [VIDEO] Peyto Lake
• [VIDEO] Grassi Lake
• [VIDEO] Consolation Lake Trail
• [VIDEO] Bow Lake
• [VIDEO] Bow River Loop Trail
• [VIDEO] Rock Pile
• [VIDEO] Cascade Garden

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